Group Differences Among Caregivers of Civilians and Service Members or Veterans With Traumatic Brain Injury

Abstract

Objective: To examine group differences among caregivers of service members or veterans (SMVs) and civilians with traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Design: An observational research study examining the group differences between caregivers of SMVs and civilians with TBI. The data presented was collected as part of a larger study that calibrated and validated the Traumatic Brain Injury-Care Quality of Life (TBI-CareQOL) item banks.

Setting: Participants in this multicenter study completed an online survey via a study-specific website. Surveys were completed at the study site, at home, or via phone interview. Civilian caregivers were recruited from 4 rehabilitation hospitals and caregivers of SMVs were recruited through community outreach and collaboration with the Hearts of Valor.

Participants: Participants (N=473) consisted of 344 caregivers of civilians with TBI and 129 caregivers of SMVs with TBI.

Interventions: Not applicable.

Main outcome measures: Zarit Burden Interview Scale, TBI-CareQOL, and Mayo Portland Adaptability Inventory, 4th revision (MPAI-4).

Results: Of the independent variables included in the logistic regression model that classified military-affiliated vs civilian caregivers, 5 were statistically significant: age, spousal status, time since injury, MPAI-4 Adjustment, and TBI-CareQOL Feeling Trapped.

Conclusions: The results indicate that caregivers of SMVs were more likely to report worse emotional and social adjustment among the individuals with TBI and caregivers of SMVs were more likely to report greater levels of feeling trapped by their caregiving duties.

Keywords: Brain injuries; Burnout; Caregivers; Military; Rehabilitation; Traumatic brain injury; Veterans; psychological.